Making Memories: A Benefit

Elizabeth Betts doesn’t have any family members who suffer from Alzheimer’s – and she aims to keep it that way.

“I am very lucky that no one in my family has (it), and I don’t want my future children to be affected,” said Betts, development specialist for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana Chapter. “I (went to work for the association) because if I wasn’t going to stand up and fight, who was going to? I want to protect the future generations, and I want to protect my family.”

The community has an opportunity to support the cause by attending the association’s annual fundraising event, Making Memories Across America, from 7 to 11 p.m. March 2 at the Brown & Williamson Club, 2800 S. Floyd St.

This year’s event includes dinner, a silent auction and live auction conducted by Rick Wardlow, dancing and entertainment. The event features specialty cocktails to represent the four corners of the United States and auctions of trips across the country, including a trip to San Francisco, passes to local golf courses, a trip to Nashville to see Elton John, a trip to Sandestin, Fla., and a camping trip to Virginia.

During the evening, awards will be given to those who have contributed to the Alzheimer’s Association. Honorees include:

Verizon Wireless Corporate Partner of the Year Award: Kaden Companies

Kindred Healthcare Family Caregiver of the Year Award: Jeanie Locy

Clark + Riggs Solutions Annual Giving Award: St. John The Baptist Breakfast/Koetter Family

Nazareth Home Media Partner of the Year Award: The News-Enterprise

PCA Pharmacy Professional Caregiver of the Year Award: Mr. and Mrs. Bernard and Rhoda Faller

Making Memories Across America

Funds raised benefit the Alzheimer’s Association’s Greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana Chapter, including the 24-hour Helpline, MedicAlert/Safe Return Program, family support groups, respite for caregivers and research. Presenting sponsors are Kindred Healthcare and Verizon Wireless. Other sponsors include PCA Pharmacy, Nazareth Home and Sam Swope Care Center at Masonic Homes of Louisville.